The new Convention Center of Salvador arrives to change the tourist and economic scenario of the capital of Bahia. It is a game-changer for tourism of congresses and events in the city, after almost five years of crisis in the segment due to the closure of the old space managed by the state government and which caused a loss to the destination of more than R$ 1.5 billion, in addition to the closing of companies and the loss of jobs. The statement is from Roberto Duran, president of Salvador Destination, the entity responsible for promoting and publicizing Salvador in the segment of national and international events.
Resulting of an investment of R$ 130 million, from the municipal government, the new equipment, to be officially inaugurated this Thursday, 23, should move the economy of Salvador up to R$ 500 million/year, generating about 2.5 thousand temporary jobs.
In the 2015-2019 period, Salvador Destination confirmed 99 congresses to the city, which resulted in an extra flow of 60 thousand tourists, with 240 thousand overnight stays in the hotel chain and an increase in the local economy of R$ 288 million. In addition, it has already secured another 18 events until 2024.
Founded in December 2013, Salvador Destination advises event organizers and companies active in this sector free of charge, aiming to promote the holding of congresses in the city. The organization currently has 56 associates, including hotels, restaurants, event planners, reception agencies and event service providers.